Bethlehem Foundation

FAQS

Who are Bridge Builders?

The Bethlehem Bridge Builders is the group name for those who have promised gifts -- or who have already given them -- to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Foundation (endowment). The group meets only once a year for a festive dinner and business meeting, to share the philanthropic activities of the endowment.

Who's eligible to be a Bridge Builder?

Bethlehem Lutheran Church Foundation is an endowment that provides opportunities for legacy gifts. Those who name the Foundation in their wills, or who give directly to the foundation, become Bridge Builders. This growing group of Bethlehem members and friends want to assure the continuity of the congregation's mission through legacy giving. Gifts become part of the Foundation's endowment, and only the interest earned on the principal is used to fund special projects and outside missions. Anyone who makes a gift to the Bethlehem Lutheran Church Foundation or who names the foundation as a beneficiary of wills or other investments is considered a Bridge Builder. When people formally indicate their intentions to leave gifts to the Foundation through a will, they are automatically considered Bridge Builders. To become a Bridge Builder, you must officially inform the Foundation of your gift plans.

How large is the Foundation's endowment?

The endowment currently has $1.25 Million in assets. Principal is never invaded, as only dividends or earnings are used to provide grants to worthy causes inside and outside the congregation. A volunteer committee of investment professionals manages it. While investment results vary from year to year, the foundation has given away from $50,000 to $60,000 each year over the past few years. The Bethlehem Lutheran Church Foundation was established in 1957.

How can I get more information?

For a Bridge Builder's brochure, please call the church office at 612-312-3400 and ask for one to be mailed to you. To have specific questions answered, please leave your question in our mailbox, and we will get back to you by phone or e-mail, whichever you prefer. Leave your questions at bridgebuilders@bethlehem-church.org.

Who’s on the Foundation Board of Directors?

• Brent Anderson, Investment Advisory
• Sandra Anderson
•  Bill Fredell 
• Paul Hauge
• Tom Kuder
  
• Roy LaFayette
  
• Jeff Seidel, Investment Advisory
  
• Kathleen Hokemeir-Seim
  
• Barbara Chapin 
  
• Rolf Running
  
• Naomi Staruch
  
• Paul Steen
  
• Dorothea Tenney
  
• Pastor Chris Nelson, ex officio